Maintaining the performance and longevity of your high-mileage vehicle requires specialized care. And regular oil change service is a key part of this. Routine oil changes are essential for all vehicles, but for high-mileage cars, the type of oil used plays a crucial role.

Unlike regular oil, high-mileage oil is formulated to address the specific needs of older engines. It contains additives that can help reduce oil consumption, improve engine performance, and extend engine life. 

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about high-mileage oil changes, including the benefits of using high-mileage oil, how to determine when your car needs it, and the recommended oil change intervals for high-mileage vehicles. You can keep your engine running great, even if it’s been well-traveled. 

What Is High-Mileage Oil?

High-mileage oil is a specialized lubricant designed specifically for vehicles with significant mileage. Unlike regular oil, high-mileage oil contains additives that can help address the unique needs of older engines.

As engines age, they may develop leaks, wear, and other problems that can affect their performance and efficiency. High-mileage oil can help prevent these issues by providing additional protection and lubrication. The additives help to:

• Reduce oil consumption: As engines age, they may develop leaks or wear that can cause increased oil consumption. High-mileage oil can help to seal leaks and prevent excess oil loss.
• Improve engine performance: High-mileage oil can help clean up deposits and sludge in the engine, which can improve performance and fuel economy.
• Extend engine life: By protecting your engine from wear and tear, high-mileage oil can help extend its life span.

Key Ingredients of High-Mileage Oil

High-mileage oils contain several key ingredients that make them suitable for older engines, including:

• Seal conditioners: These additives can help rejuvenate rubber seals and gaskets, reducing leaks and oil consumption.
• Detergents: Detergents help clean up deposits and sludge in the engine, which can improve performance and fuel economy.
• Dispersants: Dispersants help keep harmful particles suspended in the oil, preventing them from clogging the engine.

Benefits of Using High-Mileage Oil

Using high-mileage oil can offer several important benefits for your vehicle, including:

• Extended engine life: By protecting your engine from wear and tear, high-mileage oil can help extend its life span.
• Improved performance: High-mileage oil can help clean up deposits and sludge in the engine, which can improve performance and fuel economy.
• Reduced oil consumption: By sealing leaks and reducing oil consumption, high-mileage oil can help you save money on oil changes.

Determining When A Car Needs High-Mileage Oil

The best time to switch to high-mileage oil is when your vehicle reaches around 75,000 miles. However, there are other signs that your engine may need this specialized lubricant sooner, such as:

• Oil leaks: If you notice oil puddles under your car, it could be a sign that your engine is leaking.
• Increased oil consumption: If you’re adding oil more frequently than usual, it could be a sign that your engine is wearing out.
• Unusual engine noises: Unusual noises, such as knocking or ticking, could be a sign of engine wear.
• Reduced fuel economy: If you’re noticing a decrease in your fuel economy, it could be a sign that your engine is running less efficiently.

Do City Miles vs. Highway Miles Matter for a High-Mileage Oil Change?

Not all miles are equal; some roads just treat your engine better than others. City or highway miles: Does it matter? Yes, it does!

City Driving Impact

City driving subjects your engine to stop-start cycles, creating a pull-and-stretch aerobic class for your car. This can degrade oil faster, shortening the life cycle between changes.

Highway Driving Benefits

On the open highway, your car travels smoothly with fewer interruptions. This consistent speed helps reduce stress on the engine, meaning your oil can cycle freely and might not demand as frequent a change.

How Often High-Mileage Oil Change Service Should Be Done

Timing, as they say, is everything, especially when it comes to keeping your engine well-lubricated and happy. The recommended oil change intervals for high-mileage vehicles can vary depending on the manufacturer's recommendations and your driving habits.

General Recommendations

Here's the simplified version: Aim for an oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles if your driving revolves around the city. If highway miles make up most of your journey, you can push toward 7,500 miles between changes, as long as you’re not experiencing any oil leaks or excessive oil consumption.

Make Sure To Factor in Manufacturer Recommendations

Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals. This information is found in the maintenance section of your manual. The manufacturer's recommendations are based on specific factors such as your vehicle's engine size, type, and driving conditions. Incorporate the manufacturer's insights with high-mileage concerns to strike the right balance.

Your Trusted Answer for Expert Austin Oil Change Service

Using high-mileage oil is an important part of maintaining the health and performance of your well-loved vehicle. By switching to oil specifically designed for these engines and following the recommended maintenance schedule, you can help extend the life of your vehicle and save money on repairs.

Additionally, by being aware of the signs of engine wear and the factors that can affect your oil change intervals, you can ensure that your vehicle is always running at its best.

Need a reliable oil change in Austin, TX, for your high-mileage vehicle? Look no further than Lamb’s Tire & Automotive. Our team of expert, ASE-certified mechanics is dedicated to providing top-notch auto repair services and ensuring your engine’s longevity. We can help you determine the optimal oil change schedule for your specific vehicle and keep your high-mileage engine running at its peak performance.

With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust Lamb’s Tire & Automotive for all your oil change needs in Austin.